It could be the end of an era at the Santiago Bernabéu, as reports from Spain suggest that Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is set to be dismissed regardless of the result in this weekend’s Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
The Italian tactician, who has delivered multiple trophies across two stints in Madrid, is reportedly living on borrowed time. Despite a season that has seen flashes of brilliance, recent disappointments — including a slip in the La Liga title race and a Champions League exit — appear to have sealed his fate.
According to sources close to the club, the board has already made up its mind. The Copa final is not Ancelotti’s last chance to save his job — it’s simply his last game. Regardless of whether Los Blancos emerge victorious against their eternal rivals, Ancelotti is expected to be relieved of his duties immediately after the match.
The decision marks a dramatic turn of events for a manager who guided Madrid to Champions League glory just last season. However, the club’s ruthless standards demand consistent success, and this season’s shortcomings — coupled with internal doubts about the team’s tactical direction — have prompted the board to act swiftly.
Looking ahead, Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso as the prime candidate to take over. The former Madrid midfielder has earned widespread acclaim for transforming Leverkusen into Bundesliga title contenders, but prising him away from the German side could require a significant financial outlay.
Meanwhile, speculation around Jurgen Klopp has been put to rest. His agent has confirmed that the former Liverpool boss, now overseeing Red Bull’s global football operations, is not interested in returning to club management at this time.
As the Copa del Rey final approaches, all eyes will be on Ancelotti and his players. While the team will be focused on lifting the trophy, the shadow of a managerial change looms large. Win or lose, it seems the curtain is about to fall on Ancelotti’s second act in the Spanish capital.
What do you think, Madridistas? Should Ancelotti be given more time — or is it time for a fresh start? Let us know in the comments.
